Wildcat Trail - Oljato-Monument Valley, UT
Wildcat Trail – A Dog-Friendly Hiking Adventure in Oljato-Monument Valley, Utah
Wildcat Trail is a standout destination for dog owners seeking a pet-friendly outdoor experience in the heart of Monument Valley. As the only self-guided hiking trail in Monument Valley, it provides an up-close journey through the iconic buttes and landscapes that define this breathtaking region. The trail offers a peaceful and immersive way to enjoy the desert scenery, making it a top choice for visitors looking for dog-friendly hiking in Oljato-Monument Valley, Utah.
Though there are no fenced or designated dog park areas, dogs are welcome on the trail as long as local leash laws are followed. The hike is well-marked and relatively easy, though the sandy terrain and open sun mean you’ll want to bring ample water for you and your pup. There is a parking area at the trailhead, open views, some natural shade from trees, and clean facilities nearby – perfect for stretching your legs and giving your dog a memorable adventure amidst the red rocks.
FAQ – Wildcat Trail Dog Park Information
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, dogs are required to be leashed according to local regulations.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced dog area; this is a natural hiking trail.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Wildcat Trail itself is a hiking trail open to leashed dogs.
- Is there shade or shelter available? There is some shade from small trees, but it is limited—most of the trail is exposed to the sun.
- Are there benches or seating areas? There are benches and picnic tables near the parking area and campground.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, clean restroom facilities are available near the campground and trailhead.
- Is there parking available? Yes, designated parking is available near the Wildcat Trailhead.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, Wildcat Trail is open year-round, though conditions vary by season.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the Wildcat Trail is itself a well-marked hiking trail perfect for dogs and their owners.
Reviews
After you take a car loop —you can drive small car to like I did -no problem make sure you take a hike there at wild cat trail !
In my humble opinion, the best activity in Monument Valley. You get to experience the buttes and landscape at your own pace up close and personal. It’s the only hike but it’s a really good one, once you get past the first 1km or so the trail gets quiet as most turn back. The views are incredible and you can take your time. By contrast, on the driven tour around the valley, we only got 5 mins in each location barely time to get a photo let alone to take it all in. It’s also free. Please though wear decent footwear for hiking and take water, we hiked in December and it still got warm.
A great walk (anti-clockwise) best setting off at sunrise (cool). Fairly steady walk, take water and you are walking in a hostile desert environment – Rattlesnake tracks seen in the sand!
Cold drinks (NULL for one bottle or NULL for two) and an unmentionable toilet half way round.
Beautiful hike around mittens buttes. Relatively easy, walking on sand, trails well marked. Full sun. Hike back up in the sand to get to parking lot can be challenging this is the only hike you can do in the valley without a guide.
Incredible hike. We went in February around 11 am, the weather was perfect, it was the most peaceful hike ever, only saw 2 other people in the distance, however I wasn’t prepared for the amount of sand and my shoes filled with it- my own fault, but I genuinely enjoyed every second of this and recommend it to anyone, monument valley in general is precious beautiful place.